Kanye West splits from long-term manager – will now be managed by Justin Bieber’s mentor

Kanye West has parted ways with his long-term manager Izvor “Izzy” Zivkovic, with the rapper now expected to be managed solely by Justin Bieber‘s mentor Scooter Braun.

Croatian-born Zivkovic has managed West since 2010 and has been called a “close confidant” to the star. News of the split was confirmed by Billboard, with Zivkovic described as “a relatively unknown figure” who “has largely stayed out of the spotlight”. Zivkovic’s Split Second Management company is home to the likes of Arcade Fire, Jack Garratt and Banks.

Since April 2016, Zivkovic had divided West’s management duties with Scooter Braun, who is now thought likely to take over full-time. Having discovered Bieber when the singer was 12 years-old, Braun is often credited with the former child star’s career revival. As well as Bieber, Braun also manages Ariana Grande and Martin Garrix.

Braun, meanwhile, has signed a deal to make his own comic book movies, teaming up with Marvel Studios’ founding chairman David Maisel to form Mythos Studios. The company will produce comic book movie franchises “in live-action and animated formats” according to the New York Times.

Speaking to the publication, Braun said he “actually always wanted to be in film” and that he is happy to cast the artists he manages in whatever movies he makes. “If any of the talent we work with wants to be a part of the projects we’re doing, we welcome them to join us on this journey,” he said. “I’ve already had conversations with certain talent that are very excited about being a part of this.”